Pyeongnaeok: The Euljiro Legacy of Pyongyang Naengmyeon and Chogyetang
Dive into the history and unique flavors of Pyeongnaeok, an acclaimed restaurant in Euljiro, Seoul. Discover why their rich-broth Naengmyeon, signature Chogyetang, and complimentary Dakmuchim have captivated diners since 1950. A must-visit destination for both Pyongyang Naengmyeon enthusiasts and newcomers!
When the temperature starts to climb, my mind immediately turns to Naengmyeon, those wonderfully refreshing Korean cold noodles. If you are already a seasoned explorer of Seoul’s famous Pyongyang Naengmyeon spots, I have a fantastic recommendation for your next culinary adventure: Pyeongnaeok.
This legendary establishment has been serving the people of Euljiro since 1950. Their storefront proudly declares their mission: “To protect the inherent taste and tradition of Pyongyang Naengmyeon, we run toward a 100-year family business starting before dawn today.” That promise of tradition and quality is certainly something that drew me in!
Pyeongnaeok isn’t just famous for its Naengmyeon, though; their Chogyetang (chilled chicken soup) holds an equally stellar reputation.
We’re going to take a detailed look at what makes this place so special, from the deep flavor of its broth to the unique side dishes that keep patrons coming back for more. Let’s get started on this savory journey! 😋
🍜 The Heart of the Menu: Pyongyang Naengmyeon & Chogyetang
The Naengmyeon at Pyeongnaeok stands out, primarily because of its unique broth. While many Pyongyang Naengmyeon places use beef or a blend, Pyeongnaeok is known for its rich chicken stock base, which is combined with beef broth.
This combination results in a deep, satisfying flavor profile. The noodles are also served with leaf mustard greens (eolgal-i), which is a visual and textural deviation from the standard presentation.
Note on Naengmyeon Broth & Visuals: The addition of eolgal-i gives Pyeongnaeok’s Naengmyeon a distinct, intense green color that often surprises first-time visitors who are used to the pale, clear broth of typical Pyongyang-style noodles.
Taste-wise, many reviewers note a strong acidity (sanmi), suggesting the presence of dongchimi (radish water kimchi) in the broth blend, making it a very assertive and refreshing experience.
The Legendary Chogyetang (Chilled Chicken Soup)
As the weather gets warmer, the demand for Chogyetang soars, and Pyeongnaeok’s version is truly exceptional. It is served for two people minimum, and the portion size is quite generous!
What sets their Chogyetang apart is the use of various parts of the chicken, not just the often-dry chicken breast found in other restaurants. This ensures a rich variety of textures in every spoonful.
The chilled soup is loaded with ingredients like lettuce, eolgal-i (leaf mustard greens), and Korean pear, creating a wonderfully complex and cooling dish.
Historically, the broth was made using pheasant meat, but it is now primarily made with nogye (older chicken) and then perfectly blended with the beef stock used for the Naengmyeon.
🥢 The Unforgettable Side Dishes
Complimentary Dakmuchim (Spicy Shredded Chicken) – A Game Changer
One of the most talked-about elements in online reviews is the side dishes—specifically, the Dakmuchim (shredded chicken seasoned with vinegar and chili powder) that is served as a complimentary appetizer when you sit down.
This dish is a delight, known for its chewy and slightly sticky texture, and it pairs exceptionally well with the cooling Naengmyeon.
Important Warning/Tip: The Dakmuchim is an expensive item on the menu, priced at KRW 25,000 if ordered separately. While a small amount is offered complimentary, it is crucial to note that refills are strictly limited to just once. If you love it, you can order a full portion to enjoy!
Unlimited Warm Broth (Yuksu)
Another delightful and continuously refillable amenity is the warm Yuksu (broth) served in a cup.
Unlike many Naengmyeon places that offer myeon-su (noodle boiling water), Pyeongnaeok serves its rich, flavorful meat broth warm—a comforting contrast to the cold noodles to come.
Nokdujijeon (Mung Bean Pancake) and Pyongyang Mandu (Dumplings)
The side menu at Pyeongnaeok is strong, featuring excellent Nokdujijeon and Mandu that are widely praised.
The Nokdujijeon is unique, presented in a thick, two-layer pancake shape, which ensures a perfect crispy outside and moist, soft inside (geotba-sokchok).
The Pyongyang Mandu is noted for its size and dense filling. They are handmade, featuring a thick, rustic-looking wrapper.
Because the wrappers can be a bit dry, a popular tip is to sprinkle a little vinegar on the dumplings and let them rest briefly; this makes them easier to cut and enhances the flavor.
Case Study: The Mandu’s Unique Filling
I noticed something fascinating about the filling of Pyeongnaeok’s dumplings: they are heavy and solid, but they contain very little broth (yugjeup) inside. When you bite into them, the meat does not clump together but rather crumbles and disperses—a truly distinct texture for Mandu!
💰 Menu Highlights and Pricing
Pyeongnaeok offers a diverse menu that caters to both hard-core Naengmyeon fans and those looking for a comforting, warm meal.
The pheasant naengmyeon is also worth noting; it uses the same broth as the regular Naengmyeon but is topped with delicious pheasant meatballs.
| Menu Item | Price (KRW) |
|---|---|
| Pyongyang Naengmyeon (Cold Noodles) | 14,000 |
| Traditional Bulgogi (2 servings) | 48,000 |
| Bibim Naengmyeon (Spicy Mixed Cold Noodles) | 14,000 |
| Onmyeon (Warm Noodles) | 14,000 |
| Yukgaejang (Spicy Shredded Beef Soup) | 11,000 |
| Tteok/Manduguk (Rice Cake/Dumpling Soup) | 10,000 |
| Janggukbap (Meat Soup with Rice) | 11,000 |
| Chogyetang (Chilled Chicken Soup, 2p+) | 34,000 |
| Jeyuk (Boiled Pork Slices) | 30,000 |
| Nokdujijeom (Mung Bean Pancake) | 20,000 |
| Pyongyang Son Mandu (Handmade Dumplings) | 13,000 |
| Kimchi Mandu Jeongol (Kimchi Dumpling Hot Pot) | 24,000 |
| Dakmuchim (Spicy Shredded Chicken) | 25,000 |
| Pyongyang Eobokjaengban (Large) | 88,000 |
| Pyongyang Eobokjaengban (Small) | 69,000 |
📍 Location, Atmosphere, and Visitor Information
Pyeongnaeok At A Glance
- Signature Dish: Chilled Chicken Soup (Chogyetang)
- Cuisine Type: Restaurant (Specializing in Pyongyang Naengmyeon)
- Location: Euljiro, Jung-gu, Seoul (Address: 04550 21-1, Mareunnae-ro, Jung-gu, Seoul)
- Atmosphere: A historic nopo (old establishment) with a clientele that tends to be a bit older.
- Facility: Spacious seating across two floors (1st and 2nd), suitable for group dining and solo diners.
- Recognized by: Blue Ribbon Survey (a highly respected Korean dining guide)
Operating Hours and Transport
Pyeongnaeok is conveniently located in the heart of Euljiro, making it easily accessible by subway.
It is worth noting that the restaurant is an established favorite that was relocated when the area underwent redevelopment, but it has maintained its popularity in the new location.
- Phone: +82-2-2267-5892
- Days of Operation: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday (7 days a week)
- Holidays: Seollal and Chuseok (Korean traditional holidays)
- Hours of Operation (KST):
- Lunch: 11:00 ~ 15:30
- Dinner: 17:00 ~ 22:00
- Transportation: Subway Line 2/3 Euljiro 3(sam)-ga Station, Exit 11, approximately 177m away.
✅ Final Thoughts: Why Pyeongnaeok is a Must-Visit
Pyeongnaeok truly stands as a monument to traditional Korean cuisine, particularly within the world of Naengmyeon and Chogyetang.
It successfully manages to satisfy both the experienced Pyongyang Naengmyeon aficionado, who appreciates the strong acidity and rich chicken-beef broth, and the newcomer, who might be drawn in by the delicious and generous side dishes like Dakmuchim and Nokdujijeon.
Unique Broth: The deep, combined flavor of chicken and beef stock, coupled with the unique green hue from the eolgal-i.
Signature Dish: Generously portioned Chogyetang featuring varied chicken parts and crisp vegetables.
Must-Try Starter: The complimentary, coveted Dakmuchim that acts as a powerful palate opener (remember the one-refill limit!).
Next time you find yourself in Seoul, especially around the historic Euljiro district, make sure to carve out some time to visit Pyeongnaeok.
It’s not just a meal; it’s a step into the enduring culinary history of Seoul, offering unique flavors you won’t easily forget. Whether you are craving the rich chill of Naengmyeon or the savory warmth of Jeyuk, you will leave feeling satisfied and appreciative of this decades-old tradition. Go ahead and treat yourself—you deserve this kind of authentic experience! 👍
Have you visited Pyeongnaeok before? Which dish was your favorite? Share your experience in the comments below!
